The Power of Listening: Reflections on Allyship and Carl Ferenbach

One of the privileges of serving as a board member of WE ACT for Environmental Justice and as Senior Vice President for Justice and Equity at Environmental Defense Fund is having a front-row seat to the intersection of climate and environmental justice work. That intersection was on full display when I was asked to introduce Carl Ferenbach, a longtime EDF Trustee, at WE ACT’s Annual Gala. Each year, WE ACT celebrates individuals whose leadership and commitment have advanced environmental justice, and I was honored to have the opportunity to recognize Carl. 

As I prepared my remarks, however, a challenge quickly became clear: How do you capture a lifetime of impact in just a few minutes? The answer, I realized, was not to list Carl’s accomplishments. 

It was to tell a story. 

Not a story about titles, achievements, or philanthropy, but a story about a remarkable environmental justice champion and a lesson in allyship that has stayed with me. As I reflected on Carl Ferenbach’s extraordinary contributions to environmental justice, I realized the most important story wasn’t about philanthropy or leadership. It was about a simple decision Carl made more than 15 years ago: to come to Harlem and listen. These are the remarks I delivered at WE ACT’s Annual Gala.

Remarks Delivered at WE ACT’s Annual Gala Honoring Carl Ferenbach 

He came to Harlem. More than 15 years ago, Carl Ferenbach traveled to WE ACT’s office in Harlem to meet the people behind the work and better understand the challenges and opportunities facing communities on the frontlines of environmental injustice. The staff still remember the well-dressed man in a cowboy hat who walked through the door with a warm smile, genuine curiosity, and a willingness to listen. He spent time that day asking thoughtful questions and seeking to better understand the critical role WE ACT plays in advancing environmental justice. That moment made an impression on WE ACT because Carl wasn’t there to speak. 

He was there to listen. 

Carl Ferenbach embodies the very definition of allyship—choosing to stand with and support communities whose lived experiences differ from his own. But true allyship is more than support. It is humility. It is curiosity. It is a willingness to listen, learn, and act. For Carl, that journey began through his longstanding relationship with WE ACT founder Peggy Shepard, forged during their many years of service together on EDF’s Board. Over time, their shared commitment to protecting people and the environment led to conversations about environmental justice and the work of WE ACT. 

“An organization is more successful when it includes justice.” – Carl Ferenbach

What makes Carl such a remarkable ally is that he recognized there was more to learn. Rather than assuming his decades of environmental leadership had given him all the answers, he chose to better understand the experiences of communities whose voices have far too often been overlooked. 

That first visit was not a one-time gesture. It was the beginning of a lasting commitment. Today, Carl is one of WE ACT’s most dedicated and generous supporters. His philanthropy has been transformational for WE ACT. But one of his greatest contributions extends beyond financial support. He creates opportunities by investing in the next generation of leaders.

WE ACT High Meadow Fellows and Dr. Margot Brown (R) join Carl Ferenbach (C) as he receives his environmental justice champion award.

Carl and his brilliant wife, Judy, established Princeton University’s High Meadows Fellowship Program. For more than 22 years, the program has provided graduating Princeton seniors with the opportunity to spend two years working at some of the nation’s leading environmental organizations.  I can personally attest to the value of this program. At EDF, I have had the privilege of working with several High Meadows Fellows. They are among the brightest, most talented, and most promising young people I have encountered. They bring intelligence, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to solving today’s environmental and climate challenges. In many ways, these fellows reflect Carl’s vision. 

By investing in the next generation, Carl has helped strengthen not only individual careers, but the future of the environmental movement itself. These fellows represent part of our present and all of our collective future. Their success reflects Carl’s enduring belief that lasting change requires investing in the leaders who will carry this work forward. 

 As I consider Carl’s impact, I return to the story that began in Harlem. 

More than 15 years ago, he chose to come to Harlem.
He chose to listen. 
And because he did, WE ACT is stronger today.

Carl, thank you for showing us what true allyship looks like. Thank you for using your vision and generosity to expand opportunities for others. 

For all that you have done, we are profoundly grateful.